Thai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe – Spicy Beef Wraps with Thai Herbs & Chili Sauce
These Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a vibrant fusion of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors wrapped in a handheld bite. Made with caramelized ground beef cooked in chili sauce, garlic, and soy, then layered with fresh Thai basil, cucumbers, and cilantro, they’re rolled in soft rice paper or tortillas for a satisfying crunch and chew. Serve with a tangy chili-lime dipping sauce or toasted sesame oil for extra depth. Perfect as a quick appetizer, light lunch, or party snack, these rolls deliver bold Southeast Asian flavor in under 30 minutes.
Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Cutting board and knife
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs or spatula
- Shallow dish (for soaking rice paper)
- Clean towel or surface for rolling
Ingredients
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef or thinly sliced sirloin
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chili paste (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
For the Wraps & Veggies:
- 8 rice paper sheets, flour tortillas, or large lettuce leaves
- 1 cup julienned carrots
- 1 cup cucumber strips
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- Optional: sesame oil drizzle
For Dipping Sauce (choose one):
- Chili-lime sauce
- Peanut sauce
- Soy-ginger sauce
Instructions
- Cook the Aromatics: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high. Add garlic and chili paste; sauté for 30 seconds.
- Brown the Beef: Add beef and cook until browned and caramelized, about 6–8 minutes. Let edges crisp for extra flavor.
- Add Sauce & Basil: Stir in soy sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Toss in Thai basil and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.
- Prep Wrap Components: Slice veggies. If using rice paper, soak each sheet in warm water for 10–15 seconds and lay on a damp towel.
- Assemble Rolls: Place beef, veggies, and herbs in the center of each wrap. Fold sides in and roll tightly.
- Serve: Plate with dipping sauces and garnish with lime wedges or sesame seeds.
Notes
- Use Thai basil only—it’s essential for authentic flavor.
- For vegetarian rolls, substitute tofu or mushrooms.
- Make it low-carb with lettuce or collard wraps.
- Store beef and veggies separately for meal prep; assemble fresh.
- Not freezer-friendly due to delicate wraps and herbs.
- Great for parties—set up a DIY roll station with assorted fillings and sauces.